The Demons had many chances throughout the day to kick a winning score, but their lack of a quality forward line let them down. They lost despite having 11 more scoring shots for the day, and the result sank them to the bottom of the ladder.

St Kilda's long kicking got them two quick goals to open the game, and they piled on the next four with Roberts on five goals at quarter time. Melbourne gave themselves a lifeline with the last two and went into quarter time 24 points down. The margin was halved by the long break, but the Demons went backwards in the third to be 16 behind at the last change.

The sides traded goals at the start of the last quarter, and a Reeves goal was followed by a McKenzie point that put the Demons in front. St Kilda bounced back and got the winning goal. Ron Barassi made his real debut after having sat on the bench for most of his 'first' game and had the chance to make a hero of himself in the last quarter but missed a clutch goal which ultimately allowed the Saints to hang on and win.

Best were McKenzie, Marquis and Williams. Reeves replaced Spencer (shoulder) in the last quarter. Clarke replaced Albiston (bruised thigh) in the last quarter.